Shohei Ohtani Signals End to Pitching Duty for Remainder of Season

The two-way sensation returned to the Dodgers' lineup on Monday after battling physical discomfort, confirming after the game that pitching again this year is largely off the table. As Los Angeles looks ahead to the remainder of the campaign, both Ohtani and manager Dave Roberts emphasized that prioritizing overall health and offensive contribution remains the most strategic path forward for both player and team.

Shohei Ohtani Confirms Shift in Focus to Hitting Duty

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani stated on Monday that he will "most likely" not pitch again for the remainder of the current season. Following his return to the lineup in a 6-3 victory over the visiting Cincinnati Reds, the Japanese superstar addressed media questions regarding his two-way availability.

Speaking through a translator, Ohtani explained that he will be shifting his total concentration to his hitting role moving forward. He expressed confidence that stepping away from pitching duties will ultimately allow his overall performance as a batter to improve over the final stretch.

Knee Ailment and Upper-Body Soreness Keep Star Off Mound

Ohtani has been sidelined from pitching since July 3 due to ongoing discomfort in his left knee. In addition to missing pitching starts, the physical issue—compounded by right biceps and neck soreness—forced him to sit out four consecutive games prior to his return on Monday.

The decision to remain off the mound is designed to prevent any severe setbacks that could prevent him from playing entirely. Ohtani admitted that while the situation is disappointing, he intends to treat the experience as a valuable learning opportunity to improve his preparation for next season.

Dave Roberts Prioritizes Team Success and Player Health

Prior to Monday's contest, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the uncertainty surrounding Ohtani's pitching timetable, confirming that the organization has put a temporary hold on his throwing progression. Roberts stressed that the coaching staff wants Ohtani focused entirely on hitting, running, and maintaining optimal leg strength.

Roberts explained that the decision comes down to doing what is best for both the organization and the player. While acknowledging Ohtani's deep passion for two-way play, the manager noted that pushing him to pitch at this moment simply does not make practical sense.
Slump Continues as Dodgers Seek Offensive Spark

The Dodgers originally hoped that giving Ohtani a four-day break from action would help the slugger break out of a recent offensive slump. However, Ohtani went 0-for-3 with a walk on Monday night, leaving him 2-for-26 (.077) with no extra-base hits and zero RBIs over his past seven appearances.

Despite the recent dip at the plate, Ohtani's overall numbers for the year remain impressive. The four-time Most Valuable Player is currently batting .277 with 30 home runs, 80 RBIs, a .380 on-base percentage, and a .522 slugging percentage across the campaign.

Six-Time All-Star Builds on Historic Multi-Position Legacy

Before stepping away from pitching duties this year, the 32-year-old right-hander compiled an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA, 95 strikeouts, and 26 walks over 85 2/3 innings in 14 starts. His dominant pitching performance added to a storied career that already includes six All-Star selections.

Ohtani previously helped lead the Dodgers to back-to-back World Series titles in 2024 and 2025. He notably did not pitch at all during the 2024 championship run while recovering from right elbow surgery performed the previous September.